This Easter season, Lindt is doing something sweet for autism.

Swiss chocolatier Lindt is once again partnering with Autism Speaks to raise funds and awareness for autism, says the company.

“Every day, thousands of people and families are affected by autism,” says Mark Roithmayr, president of Autism Speaks. “Lindt’s continuing support of Autism Speaks helps us to better serve the autism community.”

Lindt Gold Bunny will support the autism cause as it celebrates its 60^th birthday in 2012.

Specifically, Lindt will donate 10 cents to Autism Speaks for every Gold Bunny purchased in the U.S., up to $100,000, now through Easter. The company also will donate $2 for every Easter basket sold and $1 for every free Lindt Easter e-card sent, up to $5,000, to the organization, and up to $10,000 for consumers who use Pinterest to express their Easter traditions.

Lindt also plans to raise additional funds and awareness by hosting the third Gold Bunny Celebrity Auction. Kicking off March 8, the Auction will feature porcelain versions of the iconic Lindt Gold Bunny adorned with celebrity signatures, and 100% of proceeds will go directly to Autism Speaks.

“We are proud of our partnership with Autism Speaks,” says Thomas Linemayr, chief executive officer and president of Lindt USA. “The Lindt Gold Bunny, already known as a premium, beloved icon that helps families celebrate the Easter season, continues to give back by supporting this worthy cause.”

Autism Speaks - the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization - has received more than $325,000 from Lindt through this partnership since 2009. And, Lindt has committed to donating more than $125,000 to Autism Speaks this year.

For more information on the Lindt and Autism Speaks partnership and related initiatives, visit www.LindtGOLDBUNNY.com. For more information about Autism Speaks, visit www.AutismSpeaks.org.

- M.K